Auto-resetting shooting target system

ABSTRACT

A portable target apparatus. The portable target apparatus including a base defining a interior space, an articulating armature pivotably coupled to the base and configured to mount one or more facer, a motor housed within the interior space and operably coupled to the articulating armature, a power source housed within the interior space and capable of selectively powering the motor according to one or more control functions, a microprocessor and a memory housed within the interior space, the memory configured to store the one or more control functions, and a control module housed within the interior space and capable of executing the one or more motor control functions stored in the memory.

RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 61/889,946, filed Oct. 11, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to target shooting. More particularly, the present disclosure relates a self contained programmable target shooting apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Target shooting is a widespread activity, both for purposes of recreation and in connection with the training of law enforcement officers, military personnel and individuals interested in personal self-defense. Target ranges provide a safe and controlled environment for year-around shooting. Furthermore, target ranges minimize the impact of noise and the hazards of stray projectiles on the surrounding environment; hence, they are of increasing popularity in urban areas.

Targets generally used at shooting ranges are of a solid, bullet penetrable material used typically to support a removable paper target thereon with appropriate indicia such as the well known circular “bulls-eye” target. Other target structures often used for military or police training applications may take specific shapes or silhouettes and may also have indicia or aiming points thereon. In any target range, and in an indoor range in particular, it is necessary to provide a target structure which will allow projectiles to penetrate the target and pass into a bullet trapping structure without damage or hazard from ricochets or bullet fragments. By the same token, it is desirable to have a target structure which can withstand a large number of bullet penetrations while substantially maintaining the target integrity, thus allowing the target to be used on a continued and repeated basis for a substantially longer period of time without the need for replacement.

Many such target structures are incorporated into mechanical systems which cause them to “pop-up” for the shooter to shoot at. The mechanical system may also cause the targets to fall down when the appropriate aiming point is hit. However, one major drawback of these systems is their overall complexity. Often such structures must be physically connected to a network of computers, sensors, or other infrastructure to be operational. As such, these target structures are cumbersome, not easily moved, and can be very expensive.

What is needed in the industry is an improved fully autonomously target that is relatively low cost and which will allow repeated bullet penetrations and automatic resetting without sustaining substantial damage and loss of integrity.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure meet the need of the industry for a low cost self contained programmable target shooting apparatus that may be used by individuals and local law enforcement agencies where price is a concern. The programmable target shooting apparatus is unique because it embeds electronics and software within the apparatus itself. This allows the apparatus to operate fully autonomously in a very advanced mode of operation; it does not require a user to operate one or more targets from a base control computer.

In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, the portable target apparatus includes a base and an articulating armature. The base defines an interior space. The articulating armature is pivotably coupled to the base and configured to mount one or more facer. A motor, a power source, a microprocessor, a memory and a control module are housed within the interior space defined by the base. The motor is operably coupled to the articulating armature and selectively powered by the power source according to one or more control functions stored on the memory. The control module is capable of executing the one or more motor control functions stored in the memory.

In one embodiment, the portable target apparatus includes a control panel having an auxiliary input connection in communication with the memory and configured to receive at least one control function from an external computing source.

In one embodiment, the portable target apparatus includes a transceiver configured to receive data from the at least one of a remote control, portable electronic device, or a combination thereof to trigger execution of the one or more control functions. In one embodiment, the portable target apparatus includes a strike sensing module capable of sensing a bullet impact and utilizing data collected by the sensing module to produce a report.

The summary above is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure can be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the disclosure, in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable target apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a back view of a portable target apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a back view of a portable target apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a side view of a portable target apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable target system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the portable target system of FIG. 5 with an alternative facer mounted to the armature in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a portable target system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure in operation, wherein the facer is forward facing.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a portable target system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure in operation, wherein the facer is side facing.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable target system including a track assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure in operation.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of internal elements of a track assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure in operation.

While embodiments of the disclosure are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have by shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-10, a target apparatus 100 according to a disclosed embodiment is depicted. Target apparatus 100 generally includes base 102 and articulating armature 104. In one embodiment, base 102 can include a top portion 106, bottom portion 108, front portion 110, back portion 112. and one or more side portions 114. The various portions of the base can define an interior space configured to house internal elements 155. In one embodiment, base 102 can be constructed of a high strength metal, for example heavy gauge steel.

With special reference to FIGS. 1-4, Bottom portion 108 can include a plurality of feet 116. In one embodiment, feet 116 can include one or more bores 118 configured to receive a fastener for the purpose of securing base 102 to the ground or other fixed surface. Top portion 106 can be coupled to side portions 114 by one or more fasteners 120. In one embodiment, fastener 120 can be a bolt 122 passing through or threadedly coupled to bore 124.

In some embodiments, front portion 110 can be configured to reduce the likelihood of a bullet piercing base 102. For example, front portion 110 can be constructed of a heavier gauge material than the rest of base 102. Front portion 110 can also be angled away from top portion 106 (as depicted in FIGS. 5-6) for the purpose of deflecting projectiles at a downward angle.

With special reference to FIG. 2, back portion 112 can include a control panel 126. Control panel 126 can be used to operate, power, and switch between modes functions. In one embodiment, control panel 126 includes auxiliary inputs and outputs. Control panel 106 can include an on/off switch 128. toggle for manual or timed mode 130, an auxiliary in input connection 132, and a home button 134 that can also include a status indicator 136. The control panel 126 can further include a wide variety of other features while remaining within the scope of the invention. Back portion 112 can include one or more handles 138, which serve to both protect control panel 126 and provide a means for gripping or carrying base 102.

With special reference to FIGS. 1-4, armature 104 can be pivotably coupled to base 102 for articulation relative to base 102. In one embodiment, armature 104 includes at least one facing mount 140, arm 142 and pivot assembly 144. In FIG. 4, armature 104 is depicted as including a pivot assembly 144 which extends through side portions 114 of base 102. Pivot assembly 144 can include one or more gears, pulleys, or the like to facilitate articulation. As depicted, pivot assembly 144 is fixedly coupled to facing mount 140 via arms 142. Facing mount 140 can bridge arms 142 for increased rigidity. In one embodiment, facing mount 140 can include a curved surface 146 for the purpose of absorbing and dissipating the shock from repeated bullet strikes. Facing mount 140 can further include a lower flange 148 and one or more mounts 150 for mounting a target, such as a self-sealing target, also known as a facer 152. In another embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 5-6, armature 104 can include one or more angled surfaces for the purpose of deflecting bullets upon impact. In one embodiment, mounts 150 can be bores 151 through which a fastener (not depicted) is used to mount the facer 152 to facing mount 140.

Armature 104 can be used to mount one or more facer 152. In one embodiment, facer 152 can be, for example, a plastic self-sealing target. Facer 152 can take a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be constructed of a variety of materials. In one embodiment, facer 152 can be configured to resemble a human. In other embodiments, facer 152 can resemble other objects or targets for general or specialized use. Facer 152 can be configured with one or more mounts 154 for coupling facer 152 to mounts 150 of facing mount 140.

With special reference to FIG. 10, internal elements 155 can be housed within base 102. In one embodiment, internal elements 155 can include mechanical and electrical components. Mechanical components can include a driver 156, such as one or more gears, pulleys, or other means, to couple motor 158 to armature 104. Motor 158 can be configured to receive power from one or more power source 160. When motor 158 receives power from power source 160, driver 156 can be manipulated to articulate armature 104 relative to base 102, thereby causing attached facer 152 to move. In one embodiment, power source 160 can be a battery, for example a rechargeable 12 volt battery. In other embodiments, power source 160 can be connected to an external power source. In one embodiment, power source 160 can be controlled via on/off switch 128.

Power to motor 158 can be controlled by a programmable circuit, such as a microprocessor 162. A series of modules can be in communication with and used in conjunction with microprocessor 162 wherein each module is constructed, programmed, configured, or otherwise adapted, to carry out a function or set of functions. The term module as used herein means a real-world device, component, or arrangement of components implemented using hardware, or as a combination of hardware and software, such as by a microprocessor 162 and a set of program instructions that adapt the module to implement the particular functionality, which while being executed transform the microprocessor system into a special-purpose device. A module can also be implemented as a combination of the two, with certain functions facilitated by hardware alone, and other functions facilitated by a combination of hardware and software. In certain implementations, at least a portion, and in some cases, all, of a module can be executed in microprocessor 162. Accordingly, each module can be realized in a variety of suitable configurations, and should generally not be limited to any particular implementation exemplified herein, unless such limitations are expressly called out.

In one embodiment, target apparatus 100 can include a control module 164. Control module 164 can include a memory 166 configured to store a motor control function or set of motor control functions. In one embodiment, control module 164 can be switched between a timed mode and a manual mode via toggle 130. In one embodiment, auxiliary input connection 132 can be in communication with memory 166 for receiving, sending, or transferring motor control functions. For example, a computing device 170 can be used to upload or download motor control functions to memory 166 via auxiliary input connection 132.

Control module 164 can include one or more transceivers 168 configured to send and receive data wirelessly. For example, transceiver 168 can be configured to communicate with one or more computing devices. Computing device 170 can include a personal computer such as a laptop or desktop computer, a personal computing device such as a smart phone or tablet, or other remote control device. In one embodiment, transceiver 168 can be configured to communicate with one or more remote controls 172. The home button 134 can be used to acquire the remote control 172 and the status indicator 136 can be used to confirm that a communication link has been established.

Control module 164 can include a motion sensing module 174, including a sensor 176, such as an IR sensor configured to sense motion. Control module 164 can include a strike sensing module 178, including one or more sensors 180 configured to sense impact. In some embodiments, motor control function is triggered by the sensing of motion or a bullet or pellet strike. In one embodiment, microprocessor 162 can at least partially utilize this data in recording hit or miss scoring, time of engagement, and length of shooting match times. At least a portion of this collected information can be communicated to computing device 170.

In some embodiments, a return fire module 182 can be in communication with microprocessor 162. Return fire module 182, can include a simulated weapon 184 (depicted in FIG. 9), such as a standard airsoft or splat ball gun. In addition, return fire module 182 can include a remote firearm sound simulator 186 and flash simulator 188. It should be understood that a wide variety of auxiliary devices may be incorporated into this system while remaining within the scope of the invention.

Referring again to FIG. 9, a motorized trolley and rail system 190 can be used to transport target apparatus 100 in lateral or diagonal movements while exposing the facer 152 to be engaged by a shooter. Wheels 192 can be coupled to base 102 for movement along rail system 190.

With special reference to FIGS. 7-8, mounting devices can also be incorporated to allow the target to be setup in alternate positions, thereby allowing the target facer to be exposed differently. For example, it may swing into a window opening from the sides of the window, instead of the bottom of the window.

In operation, it should be understood that the Tier 3 operation refers to operation without a remote control 172 or computing device 170 wirelessly providing input to the control module 164 or microprocessor 162, while Tier 2 operation refers to use of a remote control 172 or computing device 170. In a Tier 3 operation, the target apparatus 100 can operate as a fully autonomous standalone unit with limited functionality. The various modules can be utilized to execute preplanned command functions stored in the memory 166 of control module 164. In contrast, in Tier 2 operation, a remote control 172 or computing device 170 is used to trigger the more advanced programming contained within the various modules described above.

In some embodiments, the remote control 172 or computing device 170 contain a long range transceiver to operate one or more target apparatus 100 at ranges up to 2 miles. The remote control 172 or computing device 170 is configured to send signals to the various modules, including the control module 164 for the purpose of executing control functions. In some embodiments, the remote control 172 or computing device 170 contains a module to report the information collected by the various modules. The remote control scoring information can be displayed on the remote control 172 or computing device 170 directly, or can be transmitted to another device.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of embodiments.

Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that embodiments may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted. Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended. Furthermore, it is intended also to include features of a claim in any other independent claim even if this claim is not directly made dependent to the independent claim.

Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.

For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of Section 112, sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable target apparatus, comprising: a base defining an interior space; an articulating armature pivotably coupled to the base and configured to mount one or more facer; a motor housed within the interior space and operably coupled to the articulating armature; a power source housed within the interior space and capable of selectively powering the motor according to one or more control functions; a microprocessor and a memory housed within the interior space, the memory configured to store the one or more control functions; and a control module housed within the interior space and capable of executing the one or more motor control functions stored in the memory.
 2. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base is constructed of steel.
 3. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a driver coupling the motor to the articulating armature.
 4. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base further comprises a control panel.
 5. The portable target apparatus of claim 4, wherein the control panel comprises an auxiliary input connection in communication with the memory and configured to receive at least one control function from an external computing source.
 6. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a transceiver configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one of a remote control, portable electronic device, or a combination thereof.
 7. The portable target apparatus of claim 6, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive data from the at least one of a remote control, portable electronic device, or a combination thereof to trigger execution of the one or more control functions.
 8. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a strike sensing module capable of sensing a bullet impact.
 9. The portable target apparatus of claim 8, wherein the microprocessor is capable of utilizing data collected by the sensing module to produce a report.
 10. The portable target apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a motion sensing module capable of sensing motion.
 11. A portable target system, comprising: a base defining an interior space; an articulating armature pivotably coupled to the base and configured to mount one or more facer; a facer comprising one or more self-sealing shooting targets fixedly coupled to the articulating armature; a motor housed within the interior space and operably coupled to the articulating armature; a power source housed within the interior space and capable of selectively powering the motor according to one or more control functions; a microprocessor and a memory housed within the interior space, the memory configured to store the one or more control functions; and a control module housed within the interior space and capable of executing the one or more motor control functions stored in the memory.
 12. The portable target system of claim
 11. wherein the base is constructed of steel.
 13. The portable target system of claim 11, further comprising a driver coupling the motor to the articulating armature.
 14. The portable target system of claim 11, wherein the base further comprises a control panel.
 15. The portable target system of claim 14, wherein the control panel comprises an auxiliary input connection in communication with the memory and configured to receive at least one control function from an external computing source.
 16. The portable target system of claim 11, further comprising a transceiver configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one of a remote control, portable electronic device, or a combination thereof.
 17. The portable target system of claim 16, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive data from the at least one of a remote control, portable electronic device, or a combination thereof to trigger execution of the one or more control functions.
 18. The portable target system of claim 11, further comprising a strike sensing module capable of sensing a bullet impact.
 19. The portable target system of claim 18, wherein the microprocessor is capable of utilizing data collected by the sensing module to produce a report.
 20. The portable target system of claim 11, further comprising a motion sensing module capable of sensing motion. 